Interpretation of the Bible / Matthew 5:4

This verse is part of the Sermon on the Mount, which Jesus delivered to His disciples on Mount Sinai after He chose the twelve apostles. The Sermon on the Mount is considered one of Jesus’ most important teachings because it laid the foundation for Christian ethics and morals. In this sermon, Jesus explains what qualities true followers should have and how they should live.

What does this verse mean?

Jesus was talking about those who weep, and He was not necessarily talking about the weeping that comes from a sad situation in life. Jesus was talking about the weeping that comes when someone realizes how sinful their life is, how much harm they have done to others, or how far they are from fulfilling God’s will.

The blessing here is that those who mourn and weep over their sin will be comforted. The comfort that the text is talking about is not a simple “feeling better” feeling, but a true, effective release from the burden of sin and repentance. Jesus promises that they will be comforted, which means that God will not leave them alone in their pain and sorrow.